The Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as Mercy in the Eyes of Non-Believers: A Qur’anic and Prophetic Perspective

Abstract

Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) is universally recognized in the Qur’an as Rahmatul-lil-‘Alamin—a Mercy for all the worlds (Qur’an 21:107). His life, often misrepresented by critics, offers profound lessons of justice, compassion, and forgiveness not only for Muslims but also for non-believers. This paper critically examines the Prophetic model of mercy in various dimensions—spiritual, social, political, and economic—through Qur’anic verses, Hadith, and historical analysis. It discusses his exemplary patience during persecution in Makah, his pluralistic governance in Madinah, and his magnanimity in times of conflict such as the Conquest of Makkah. The Prophet’s dealings with non-Muslims highlight universal ethics, emphasizing human dignity, rights of minorities, and justice for all. Moreover, the testimonies of Western historians and scholars such as Lamartine, Karen Armstrong, and Montgomery Watt affirm that even beyond the boundaries of faith, Muhammad (PBUH) was perceived as a symbol of mercy. In contemporary times marked by Islam phobia and interfaith tensions, the Prophet’s life provides a timeless framework for peace building, tolerance, and global harmony.

Keywords: Prophet Muhammad, Mercy, Non-Believers, Qur’an, Hadith, Interfaith Dialogue, Peace building